Buhari, who made the pledge at a virtual summit for democracy organised by President Joe Biden of the United States, said necessary mechanisms would be strengthened to ensure that Nigeria witness another peaceful transfer of power.
“As we countdown to our next general elections in 2023, we remain committed to putting in place and strengthening all necessary mechanisms to ensure that Nigeria will not only record another peaceful transfer of power to an elected democratic government but will also ensure that the elections are conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.
“Nigeria will continue to actively support the democratisation processes in our region West Africa and the African continent at large. But regrettably, our democratic gains of the past decades are under threat of the unconstitutional takeover of power.
The President noted that Nigeria continues to face security challenges, which pose a threat to democracy, calling on global partners to support the nation’s efforts in tackling insurgency and terrorism.
“I am proud to state that Nigeria has had over two decades of uninterrupted democratic governance and has unequivocally remained committed to upholding the core values and principles of democracy.
Buhari thanked President Biden, the government and the people of the United States for hosting the summit, adding: “As you are aware, democracy has remained the most popular and universally recognised way of governance thus far. It is one governance system that guarantees freedom of speech, rule of law, respect for human rights and inclusiveness in governance. It also promotes social justice, economic and social development and national and global peace.
“However, in spite of these laudable qualities, more is required from us as members of democratic societies, particularly in ensuring that democratic institutions and processes are strengthened, especially during this period of a global pandemic which has threatened social cohesion in most democracies.
President Buhari noted that the summit was taking place at a time when democratic institutions around the world were facing several challenges.
“This event will help promote a positive agenda for democratic renewal by focusing on some of the major challenges faced by democracies today. It is hoped that through our collective action, we can safeguard democratic values and principles,’’ he said.
Also, yesterday, the President assured the management of the National Human Rights Commission of his continuous support in its efforts to get closer to the people in order to assuage their grievances.
He spoke at State House, Abuja, when he received in audience the governing council of the commission.
“I will try and see the minister working with you and find out within our limited resources what we can honestly do for you,” the President said.
In her remarks, the Chairperson of the commission, Dr. Salamatu Suleiman said the council decided to visit the President yesterday being World Human Rights Day to intimate him with the efforts of the commission in tackling petitions before the organisation.
“COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted political, social and economic foundations in Nigeria and Africa…leading to loss of livelihoods and increase in the level of inequalities as well as the upsurge in sexual-based violence,” Salamatu said.
She, however, assured that “the attainment of human rights obligations, especially socio-economic rights, enshrined as Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy is at the centre of the implementation of the approved National Development Plan (NDP) for 2021-2025.”
